From Kanye West to The Beatles, Chelsea boots have been an iconic footwear choice for men for several decades. Not only are these the boots of trendsetters, but they are also an effortless way to demonstrate your unique personality.
Below is a list of the best Chelsea boots for men currently available. These boots showcase quality craftsmanship, uncompromising attention to detail, and perhaps most important, provide you with a comfortable step wherever your next adventure takes you.
Let’s take a look:
6 Tips for Buying Chelsea Boots
When buying Chelsea boots, keep the following considerations in mind:
1. Leather Grade
Chelsea boots rely on any of the following leather grades:
- Top Grain: The top exterior of the cowhide is used for this type of leather. It is then sanded and buffed to remove surface imperfections. With time, it develops a nice patina. Top-grain is premium-grade leather. Nubuck leather is a type of top-grain leather.
- Full Grain: This leather is made from the entire cross-section of the hide. It’s thicker and more durable. The break-in period of this leather type is longer, and the boot may feel stiffer. Like top-grain, it develops a nice patina.
- Genuine Leather:This leather is generally considered to be poor. With heavy use, genuine leather will stretch and tear. However, it’s affordable and suitable for a Chelsea boot intended to be worn for only one or two seasons.
- Calfskin: Sourced from young cattle, it has a delicate and velvet-like texture. Calfskin is often used by premium brands, given the quality. It will also develop a nice patina.
- Suede: This leather, sourced from the underside of the hide, isn’t as durable. Suede requires special cleaning. You can expect suede only to last you a few years.
2. Color
Unless worn for a specific look, you will find that most Chelsea boots come in neutral colors. Neutral colors are more versatile, allowing them to work with a wide range of your wardrobe. Consider darker Chelsea boots if you attend semi-formal events frequently.
3. Ankle Closure
Chelsea boots come with two main side closures:
- Elastic: This is the most popular side closure. Allows for a better range of motion when walking. This closure is also the most traditional and versatile.
- Zippered: While you will see zippers on higher or mid-calf boots, they are not all that common when it comes to Chelsea boots. However, the zipper can make the boot feel more secure. Dirt and debris may cause the zipper to jam, so clean accordingly.
4. Heel Height
Most Chelsea boots have a relatively short heel that is akin to a work boot. At only a fraction of an inch, the heel won’t be too noticeable when walking.
However, some Chelsea boots do have what is called a Cuban heel. Cuban heels are raised about 1.5″ and can give you a much taller appearance. The Cuban heel is often found on cowboy boots (source) and has a slightly tapered cut.
Related: Types of Men’s Boots
Here’s how both of these heels compare:
Consider a Cuban heel Chelsea boot if you want to add some height.
5. Welt / Repair
To get better value out of your purchase, buy a pair of Chelsea boots that contain a Goodyear welt or Blake stitch. These welts can be replaced and repaired by your local cobbler. The welt is crucial if you decide on a pair of full-grain leather boots that are intended to last you for several years.
Cemented soles are glued together, making them unrepairable. If the company doesn’t disclose the type of stitching, assume they’re cemented.
6. Sizing
Sizing varies from one brand to the next. Often, Chelsea boots run a half-size larger, so size down accordingly. Always read the product fit details provided by the company for further guidance.
It’s essential to get accurate sizing as Chelsea boots don’t have laces.
1. Best Suede Chelsea Boots: Suede Chelsea Boots – Brooks Brothers
Anyone looking for a classy boot to add to their closet should virtually make their way on over to Brooks Brothers and grab a pair of Suede Chelsea boots.
These guys rarely miss a beat when it comes to crafting quality shoes. Made from buttery brown suede and leather soles, they look and feel great.
Complete with tonal stitching and a perfectly rounded toe, these are the ultimate statement boots! Whether you’re roaming through city streets or heading on a fall vacation with your sweetheart—these top-rated Chelsea boots will not disappoint.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Suede
- Welt: Not Disclosed
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 8-13
- Country of Origin: Italy
2. Ethically Made: Nisolo Javier Chelsea Boot
The perfect fall boot has arrived. Whether you are walking through a pile of wet leaves or down a wet street with several puddles around, you will love that the Nisolo Javier Chelsea Boot is naturally water-resistant. Paired with a 1.25″ rubber heel cap, it will also provide confidence with each step as it shouldn’t slip easily. With an elastic side closure along with a leather pull-tab, these boots should be easy to slide on before you head out the door. Nisolo makes this boot in three colors: black, brandy, and brown.
Nisolo, as a company, prides itself on its ethical operations (learn more). If there was ever a time to vote with your wallet, it’s now.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Top, Full, or Nubuck (source)
- Welt: Goodyear (source)
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 8-13
- Country of Origin: Peru
3. Made in the USA: Red Wing Heritage Weekender Chelsea Boot
Known for their premium leather goods, Red Wing Heritage sets the bar that all other heritage companies must follow. While most Chelsea boots are made for more sophisticated or formal wear, Red Wing Heritage decided to go against the grain and offer up an ultra-comfortable yet still stylish, weekender Chelsea boot.
Still relying on that classic full-grain nubuck leather that we have grown to love in many products from Red Wing Heritage, you can expect the leather uppers on this boot to last you for years. When cared for properly, the leather will also develop a lovely patina with time.
Underneath the shoe, you have a textured outsole that provides an excellent grip in slippery conditions. Relying on stitch-down construction, the outsoles are repairable when worn down – greatly extending the boot’s life.
Plus, they are made in the USA – what’s not to love?
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Full Grain, Nubuck
- Welt: Stitchdown
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 7-13
- Country of Origin: USA
4. Most Stylish Chelsea Boots: Bitflex Chelsea – Astorflex
The Bitflex Chelsea boot is everything you’ve been looking for and so much more.
Handcrafted by master shoemakers in Northern Italy, Astorflex has been making shoes for over six generations. I think it’s safe to say that these guys know what they’re doing.
These boots rely on premium European leather aged to perfection for 30 days. They are then softened into supple nubuck and mounted on a 100% natural rubber sole for the perfect balance of style and comfort. The Bitflex is also available in nine different colors.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Nubuck Leather
- Welt: Blake
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 7-15
- Country of Origin: Italy
5. Best Formal Chelsea Boots: Brook Brothers Chelsea Boots
Made in Italy, these tonal stitched Chelsea boots by Brook Brothers offer a classic yet elegant style. With their slightly moderate ankle height, they won’t rub awkwardly on your leg while still providing adequate support. They will be a versatile boot to add to your wardrobe.
Sizes vary; however, you can only get these boots in either brown or black. Crafted from full-grain leather, they should last you for years while also developing a nice patina.
Some men note that these boots run a bit smaller, so you may want to size up just a half-size to account for this. Lastly, these Chelsea boots are available in both black and brown.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Full-Grain
- Welt: Not Disclosed
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 8-13
- Country of Origin: Italy
6. Best Under $100: Bruno Marc Men’s Suede Leather Chelsea Ankle Boots
The Bruno Marc Men’s Chelsea Boots are the perfect pick for those men on a tight budget. Ringing up at a fraction of the price of other Chelsea boots reviewed, the Bruno Marc’s features a suede upper and a fairly comfortable insole.
While absent of trademark qualities, including a Blake or Goodyear welt, these boots should be able to last you a season or two before replacement.
The boots are easy to slide on and off thanks to the elastic band closure. Bruno Marc makes this boot available in nine different colors – so you should have no problem finding the perfect boot for you.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Suede
- Welt: Not Disclosed
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 7-15
- Country of Origin: Likely China
7. Best Luxury Chelsea Boot: Aquatalia Adrian Leather Chelsea Boots
The masterful Italian shoemakers at Aquatalia have bestowed upon us a one-of-a-kind Chelsea boot. These polished leather boots embody the ultimate in rugged sophistication.
These shoes are constructed with a luxurious deep brown leather upper and set on a sturdy heel and well-crafted sole. Details like the water and stain-resistant finish and elastic goring for quick on-and-off make these perfect for men on the go.
Pair with a slim cut trouser and your favorite button-down, and you’ve got a versatile look that can transition effortlessly from day to evening.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Calf Leather
- Welt: Likely Goodyear
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 7-13
- Country of Origin: Italy
8. Up & Coming: Jude Boot In Tonal by Taft
The Jude Boot In Tonal by Taft is a durable and comfortable Chelsea boot that quickly becomes a favorite brand among men. Relying on Spanish Suede and a full-grain leather outsole with rubber inserts, this boot will equally feel and look great.
Cobblers can resole the Jude Boot thanks to the reliance on a Blake stitch. Therefore, you can expect these boots to last you several years. The Jude Boot has an elastic band closure which makes it easy to slide on and off.
Lastly, the color and size varieties are a strong point for this boot. With three different colors and available in sizes 6 to 15, you should have no problem finding the perfect boot for your unique style.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Spanish Suede
- Welt: Blake
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 6-15
- Country of Origin: Spain
9. Best Value: Thursday Boot Company Duke Men’s Chelsea Boot
Founded in 2014, NYC-based Thursday Boot Company strives to offer ridiculously high-quality footwear at an honest price. And with the Duke Men’s Chelsea Boot, they appear to be hitting all the right notes.
For starters, this boot relies on a Goodyear welt – making for much better construction while also able to be repaired quickly. Thursday Boot Company makes the Duke Men’s Chelsea Boots in five distinct uppers. For their signature Honey Suede, they rely on WeatherSafe Suede that has a blended solution to keep your feet dry while also protecting the suede (source). Other boots from the same line rely on chrome leather.
These boots’ unique features include the DuraEVA™ comfort strip, cork midsoles, and microbial insoles to give your feet a comfortable and odor-free ride.
Key Features:
- Leather Type: Varies (Suede, Veg Tanned Leather)
- Welt: Goodyear
- Closure: Elastic Band
- Sizes Available: 6-15
- Country of Origin: Likely Mexico